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According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile-it creates a healthier you.

Malocclusions (when opposing teeth of the upper and lower jaws fit together improperly) are both inherited and acquired. Crowded teeth, too much space between teeth, extra or missing teeth, and general mouth and jaw features are examples of inherited problems. Acquired or local factors such as thumb or finger habits, tongue thrusting, airway constriction, decay or gum disease, trauma, and premature loss of baby teeth also contribute to poor tooth alignment and bad bites.

A healthier more beautiful smile
Reduced appearance-consciousness during critical growth years
Better function and comfort with a proper bite
Increased self esteem and confidence
Increased ability to keep teeth clean
Improved force distribution and wear patterns on teeth
Guided facial growth for a more attractive face and profile
Better long term health of the teeth and gums
Reduce or eliminate the need for future jaw surgery
Guide the permanent teeth into a more favorable position
Reduce or eliminate the need to extract teeth
Better lip closure
Improved speech and swallowing
Aid in optimizing other dental treatments
Less strain on the jaw joints and muscles
Prevent premature loss of teeth and aging appearance
Children with pleasing appearance and teeth usually receive more attention in school

Everyone appreciates the importance of a winning smile. It makes a pleasing appearance, promotes self-esteem, and is valuable to social and career success. Creating beautiful smiles is what orthodontics is all about. Today, orthodontic treatment is convenient and affordable, so that individuals from childhood through retirement can enjoy its important benefits. Orthodontics is important not only to a great smile and improved self-confidence, but to better dental health. By aligning teeth and improving the harmony of the lips and face, orthodontics can improve one's general attitude toward life. Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. Teeth in correct alignment are easier to clean, and that can make them more resistant to decay and less susceptible to gum disease and tooth loss. Alignment may also prevent tooth and jaw discomfort that can come from uneven wear.

Chronic head, neck or jaw pain can also be caused by orthodontic problems. When left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse. They can lead to costly dental care in later years which is often greater than the cost of orthodontics today. By choosing to wear braces, you are taking a positive step in improving your overall dental health and comfort. More than 5 million people in the United States and Canada are in the care of an orthodontist and looking forward to a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. The obvious potential reward is straighter teeth that are less prone to decay and injury. But just as important is the improved self-confidence that a better smile can provide.